Tips on How to Sleep Better After Shoulder Surgery

Recovering from shoulder surgery can be challenging, and one of the biggest hurdles is getting a good night’s sleep. After shoulder surgery, patients often experience discomfort, pain, and mobility restrictions, making finding a comfortable sleeping position difficult. Yet, quality sleep is essential for healing and overall well-being, as it helps the body repair itself, reduces inflammation, and improves mood and energy levels. In this article, we’ll discuss practical tips to help you sleep better after shoulder surgery, explore why proper rest is important for your recovery, and how Timely Medical can support your post-surgery journey.

What is Shoulder Surgery?

Shoulder surgery, such as rotator cuff repair or shoulder replacement surgery, is performed to repair injuries or correct conditions affecting the shoulder joint, such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, arthritis, and fractures. Depending on the injury, the surgery may be done arthroscopically (minimally invasive) or through open surgery. In shoulder surgery Canada, procedures like shoulder arthroscopy are common and can be life-changing for those suffering from chronic shoulder pain or mobility issues.

Post-surgery recovery often includes pain, limited mobility, and a need for proper rehabilitation. These factors, combined with the body’s natural inflammatory response to surgery, can significantly impact your ability to sleep. Therefore, managing your sleep environment and habits becomes crucial to recovery after shoulder surgery.

Why is Sleep Important During Shoulder Surgery Recovery?

Sleep plays a vital role in the body’s ability to heal after surgery. Quality rest supports soft tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and regulates pain sensitivity. Studies show that patients with shoulder pathologies often suffer from poor sleep quality before surgery but see improvements after surgery. The prevalence rates of sleep disturbances before and after rotator cuff surgery ranged from 75.8% to 100% and 19% to 62%, respectively. Every study included in this analysis reported improved rates of sleep disturbances postoperatively compared with preoperatively. Patients with shoulder pathologies have poor sleep quality that improves after shoulder surgery. However, this improvement might not return sleep quality within the normal range, suggesting other factors might impact postoperative sleep quality. These improvements may not always bring sleep quality back to normal, suggesting other factors can influence postoperative sleep.

Good sleep helps with faster healing and better rehabilitation outcomes during recovery. Improving sleep can reduce the risk of complications and enhance overall recovery for patients who have undergone arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Tips on How to Sleep After Shoulder Surgery

Achieving a comfortable position post-surgery can be challenging, yet implementing these strategies can significantly enhance your sleep quality and overall comfort. Understanding how to sleep on a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can be particularly helpful. The specifics will largely depend on the type of surgery you had and the pace of your recovery. It’s advisable to anticipate 4 to 6 months before returning to your usual sleeping habits. With this considerable timeframe, establishing a reliable sleep routine during the initial weeks after surgery becomes essential for your healing process.

Sleeping in a Reclined Position

A semi-reclined position is one of the most recommended sleeping positions after shoulder surgery. This can be achieved using a recliner or propping yourself in bed with pillows. Sleeping in a semi-reclined position helps reduce pressure on the shoulder, limits unnecessary movement, and minimizes pain. It also reduces the risk of rolling onto your injured shoulder during sleep. If you don’t have a recliner, try arranging firm pillows behind your back and under your head to mimic the angle of a recliner. This can help keep your shoulder stable and minimize discomfort.

Sleep on the Uninjured Side

Another option is to sleep on your non-surgical side. However, you must take extra precautions to avoid straining your recovering shoulder to do this safely. Place a medium-sized pillow between your arm and torso for support, ensuring your shoulder remains neutral. This keeps the shoulder stable and reduces any risk of rolling onto the injured side.

Wear Your Sling When Sleeping

Most doctors advise wearing a shoulder sling during the day and night in the early stages of recovery. The sling keeps your shoulder immobile, helping prevent accidental movements that could strain the healing tissue. Wearing a sling at night is important to avoid rolling onto your injured side or making sudden movements in your sleep. Adjust the sling correctly for maximum comfort, and if the straps feel uncomfortable while you sleep, add an extra pillow or padding around the neck.

Use of Pillows and Supports

Pillows are one of the most effective tools to ensure proper alignment and support while sleeping after shoulder surgery. Here’s how you can use them:

• Pillow Placement Tips: To enhance comfort while sleeping after shoulder surgery, strategically using pillows can provide significant support. Placing a pillow prop under the injured arm helps keep it elevated and reduces strain on the shoulder. Positioning a firm pillow behind your back when sleeping on your uninjured side can prevent accidental rolling onto the affected shoulder at night.
• Wedge Pillows: Angled wedge pillows are highly recommended for post-surgery sleep. These firm, triangular pillows keep you in a semi-reclined position, providing extra support for your shoulder. They are especially useful if you don’t have a recliner but still need to sleep upright. Additionally, learning how to sleep on a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery can improve comfort and support during recovery.
• Body Pillows: A long body pillow can support your whole body while you sleep. Hugging a body pillow can help stabilize your upper body and prevent you from shifting positions during sleep. It also adds comfort by taking some weight off your shoulders.

Pain Management

Effective pain management is crucial for achieving restorative sleep following shoulder surgery. Below are several strategies to help alleviate discomfort after shoulder surgery during the night:

• Ice Packs: Applying ice packs before bed can help reduce inflammation and numb pain in your shoulder. Ensure you follow your surgeon’s instructions for safe use, as improper application can cause skin irritation or frostbite.
• Schedule Medicine Intake: Pain relief medications are often prescribed after surgery. Scheduling your medication intake to coincide with bedtime can help you fall asleep more comfortably. Be sure to follow the dosage recommendations provided by your healthcare provider to avoid overuse.

What to Avoid During Sleep

Certain activities and sleeping positions can significantly impact your ability to rest and may even impede your shoulder recovery. Firstly, it’s crucial to refrain from sleeping on the injured shoulder, as this can exacerbate pain and delay healing. Additionally, be mindful of sudden movements, as jarring or jerking the shoulder during sleep can increase discomfort. Lastly, lying flat on your back is not recommended, as it may heighten shoulder discomfort; maintaining a slight incline or semi-reclined position can help alleviate pressure on the shoulder joint.

When to Consult Your Surgeon

Though some discomfort after shoulder surgery is normal, there are specific signs that warrant contacting your surgeon. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing severe pain that does not respond to prescribed pain medication, notice swelling, redness, or unusual warmth around the surgical site, or if sleep disturbances continue for several weeks despite implementing the suggested strategies for improved rest. Your surgeon can provide further guidance on managing your pain level and sleep routine, or they may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Conclusion

Sleeping after rotator cuff or shoulder replacement surgery is challenging, but improving your rest and supporting your recovery is possible with the right strategies. Focus on sleeping in a semi-reclined position, using firm pillows for support, managing your pain, and wearing your shoulder sling at night. Every patient’s recovery is unique, but developing a good sleep routine early on can help ensure a smoother healing process. Remember, the more restful your sleep, the better your body can recover from postoperative shoulder pain.

FAQs

What is the most comfortable position to sleep in after shoulder surgery?

For many patients, sleeping in a semi-reclined position, either in a recliner or with firm pillows to prop you up, is the most comfortable option. Sleeping on your non-surgical side with proper support from pillows is another option.

What kind of pillow do I need after shoulder surgery?

A simple or angled wedge pillow is ideal for maintaining a semi-reclined position, while the body pillow systems and soft pillows can support your injured arm and prevent you from rolling over.

How do you sleep comfortably with a sling?

To sleep comfortably with a sling, ensure it is properly adjusted and padded for comfort. Use an extra pillow or padding to support your arm and keep your shoulder stable.